Dental Pre-clinic Lab Operations Supervisor

The Dental Pre-clinic Lab Operations Supervisor plays an integral role in supporting the education of dental students. This position is responsible for the management of the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry's 3M Simulation Dental Clinic, known as the pre-clinical laboratory or "pre-clinic", and related laboratory spaces. The Dental Pre-clinic Lab Operations Supervisor understands all aspects of lab operations, and in partnership with the Director of Pre-clinical Dentistry, works to identify and implement operational efficiencies.

This role liaises with course directors and course faculty on materials/ instrumentation needs and budgets, manages the procurement process, and facilitates course material availability, per specification. The Dental Pre-clinic Lab Operations Supervisor may supervise other employees and/or student workers, to ensure dental students receive assistance during pre-clinical coursework.

• Understand all aspects of lab operations; analyze; develop and enforce policies, procedures and compliance requirements. Research procedural problems; identify and implement operational efficiencies. Organize and document workflow and processes.
  • Perform continual analysis of processes to identify and correct gaps and deficiencies - recommend possible solutions.
  • Oversee the maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment in conjunction with dental engineering; ensure timely and complete repair.
  • Evaluate audio-visual needs; identify/propose improvements; coordinate/facilitate implementation of any new equipment; monitor function and maintenance.
  • Evaluate and elevate standards of cleanliness; monitor waste and ensure work areas are in compliance with healthcare industry standards and University policies.
• Materials Management
  • Procure, inventory, and manage materials and equipment used in the 3M Simulation Clinic.
    • Work with course directors to identify materials, instruments, and equipment used in pre-clinical courses.
    • Ensure product stock is adequate in both quality and quantity.
      • Communicate with UMarket, dental vendors and dental laboratories to purchase materials and products; utilize various methods including EFS, University procurement card; follow School and University policies and procedures. Track orders, receive physical products and place into electronic inventory to track usage/product availability.
      • Work within established course budgets. Identify opportunities for quality improvement and/or cost savings.
    • Perform regular audits of supply levels; collaborate regularly with personnel to investigate and adjust discrepancies between physical count and perpetual inventory.
    • Manage lab organization including inventory; ensure policies are in place to keep the lab neat, organized and secure.
• Oversee dispensing and collection of materials, instruments, and equipment for lab sessions. Ensure high level of quality customer service to staff and faculty needing product, supply, equipment or other support.
• Assist faculty with any operational needs during pre-clinical activities.

• Create and/or supervise the creation of casts and other dental related laboratory teaching materials.

• Develop pre-clinic orientation materials; organize sessions and present to users of the pre-clinic.
• Communicate lab content information, lab expectations/directions, and updates to students, course directors, and other involved parties.
• Assist students with the operation of lab equipment.
• Work with course directors and oversee facilitation of pre-clinical laboratory courses; this includes packaging materials, instruments, and equipment and ensuring availability when needed.
• Understand all…